20 Function Bike Computer Installation

Basic cycle computers, or cyclometers, track your riding speed, how long you've been riding and your distance. More advanced models feature up to 20 functions such as heart rate, calories burned, cadence and a stopwatch. Regardless of how many statistics your cycle computer tracks, the installation is similar. The main difference is that some models have a wire running from the computer to the sensor and others don't.

Things You'll Need

  • Cyclometer
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Plastic zip ties
Show More

Instructions

  1. Wired Cyclometer

    • 1

      Install the correct size battery into your cyclometer's computer.

    • 2

      Position the sensor on the fork of your bike. The sensor is best placed as close to the wheel hub as possible, but the position will vary depending on the length of the wire. Loosely attach the sensor to the fork with two zip ties.

    • 3

      Fit the magnet onto a spoke of your front wheel so it's in line with the center of the sensor. When the wheel spins the magnet should not hit the sensor. For most cyclometer models, the magnet and sensor need to be less than 3 millimeters apart.

    • 4

      Hold the computer of your cyclometer so you can see the display. Spin the front wheel. The display should come on and show a speed if the sensor and magnet are positioned properly. If the display does not come on, re-position the sensor and magnet. Once the sensor and magnet are in line, tighten the zip ties to secure the sensor.

    • 5

      Fit the mounting bracket for the computer onto your bike's handlebars. The computer needs to be visible, but clear of the brakes, shifters and where you normally rest your hands while riding. Tighten the bracket with the screwdriver or with the quick-release lever depending on your cyclometer model.

    • 6

      Secure the cyclometer wire to the bike frame with a few more zip ties. The wire needs to be out of the way, but not so tight you can't turn the handlebars.

    • 7

      Program your computer according to the manufacturer's directions. Slide it into the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.

    Wireless Cyclometer

    • 8

      Install the correct size battery into your cyclometer's computer and transmitter.

    • 9

      Fit the computer's mounting bracket onto your bike's handlebars. The computer needs to be visible, but clear of the brakes, shifters and where you normally rest your hands while riding. Tighten the bracket with the screwdriver or with the quick-release lever depending on your model of cyclometer. Program your computer according to the manufacturer's directions. Slide it into the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.

    • 10

      Position the sensor on the fork of your bike. The sensor is best placed as close to the wheel hub as possible, but the exact position will vary depending on the distance of the transmitter signal. Loosely attach the sensor to the fork with two zip ties.

    • 11

      Fit the magnet onto a front wheel spoke so it's in line with the center of the sensor. When the wheel spins the magnet should not hit the sensor. For most cyclometer models, the magnet and sensor need to be less than 3 millimeters apart.

    • 12

      Spin the front wheel. The display should come on and show a speed if the sensor and magnet are positioned properly. If the display does not come on, re-position the sensor and magnet. Once the sensor and magnet are in line, tighten the zip ties to secure the sensor.